A fresh crisis is brewing in the Surulere chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) following allegations that some influential party leaders are attempting to impose a preferred aspirant ahead of the Lagos State House of Assembly primaries.
The development has heightened tension among party members, with some aggrieved stakeholders accusing powerful interests within the party of undermining internal democracy.
They alleged that the move was aimed at edging out actor-turned-politician, Desmond Elliott, despite his legislative experience and support among some grassroots members.
Speaking during a political discussion, a party stakeholder alleged that the process had already been tilted in favour of a female aspirant before the primaries.
The stakeholder, who said his concern was fairness within the APC, warned against imposition.
“Nobody should play God in Surulere politics. The arrogance of power must stop. Party members should be allowed to choose their candidate freely,” he said.
He further alleged that some appointees and party loyalists were being intimidated into supporting the preferred aspirant.
“They are scaring people and intimidating people, especially those who have offices, that if you do not support this lady, your appointment can be removed,” he alleged.
The stakeholder questioned why some party leaders and council officials were openly moving around with one aspirant ahead of the primaries.
“How can a council chairman leave his work and be following an aspirant around? Leaders should create a level playing field, not openly take sides,” he said.
He also alleged that there was no genuine consensus arrangement in the Surulere APC, claiming that the political structure had been directed to work for the emergence of the female aspirant.
According to him, the Chairman of Surulere Local Government, Sharif Balogun, had allegedly declared support for the aspirant and instructed ward chairmen and party executives to mobilise for her.
The controversy has renewed debate over the political future of Elliott, who is seeking another term in the Lagos State House of Assembly.
While critics have questioned his performance, supporters insist that the opposition to his return is politically motivated.
They argue that another term could position him as a ranking lawmaker capable of occupying principal positions in the Assembly.
A political commentator familiar with the matter argued that many people misunderstand the role of lawmakers, saying legislators are expected to represent constituents, sponsor bills, move motions and attract development, rather than personally fund major infrastructure.
The commentator cited a 198-page compendium titled My Surulere and I So Far, which reportedly detailed Elliott’s legislative activities and constituency interventions.
According to the document, Elliott sponsored 11 motions, co-sponsored 42 motions and participated in the passage of 32 bills into law.
The crisis has also revived discussions about political succession and godfatherism in Surulere politics, especially in relation to the influence of former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila.
Some party members argued that if Gbajabiamila was allowed to represent the constituency for multiple terms, it would be unfair to deny Elliott a similar opportunity.
Sources said attempts to produce a consensus candidate had failed due to resistance from supporters of Elliott and other aspirants who insisted on open primaries.
“What leadership should do is create a free and fair environment. Let the people decide. If the people don’t want an aspirant, they will reject the person themselves,” he said.
